Under direct orders from NBA commissioner David Stern to help the Hornets find potential corporate sponsors in New Orleans, Scott O'Neil, the league's top marketing and business executive, said the reaction from local businesses has been stronger than expected.
"We're happy with the progress made so far, and the one theme that keeps jumping out at these meetings is these business leaders are committed to this community," said O'Neil, the league's senior vice president for marketing and business operations.
"Getting partners that are committed to the team is important for the well-being of the franchise. Again, we're getting a strong reaction, everybody understands in a market this size that key business leaders need to be a big part of the rebirth of the city and their franchise."